Denmark spoils Peru’s World Cup return

Denmark spoiled Peru’s first World Cup game since 1982 with a 1-0 victory in Saransk on Saturday.

Peru came out looking like it wanted to make up for those 36 years with an aggressive offense. And it looked like it would be rewarded when it drew a penalty late in the first half. The penalty was not immediately called, but signaled after a quick video review.

Christian Cueva stepped up but hit a bad penalty shot, sending the ball far over the goal.

Denmark broke through in the 60th minute. The team’s star Christian Eriksen had something of a quiet game, but delivered the key assist, and Yussuf Poulsen drove it home.

Peru upped the pace once behind and had many chances over the last 30 minutes, but could not capitalize. Kasper Schmeichel, Denmark’s goalkeeper, made several difficult saves to maintain the lead.

With France beating Australia earlier in the day, Denmark joined them on top of the group and left Peru with a lot to do to have a successful return to the World Cup.